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BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Apr 02, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) -- U.S. researchers said Friday that diabetes has increased tenfold in the United States in the past 30 years.
The researchers, at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, said pre-diabetes, previously called borderline diabetes, also is increasing dramatically, although reliable statistics have not yet been collected.
In order to fight the epidemic of the disease, physicians are recommending dietary changes and physical exercise.
"Exercise improves your insulin sensitivity, helps the body better metabolize glucose and keeps people at risk of diabetes out of the danger zone," said UAB endocrinologist Dr. Richard Rosenthal.
Exercise that builds lean body mass can improve insulin sensitivity, making it a helpful complement to aerobic exercise such as walking or running.
Rosenthal said people with pre-diabetes should try to exercise for a minimum of 20-30 minutes of exercise every day.
Copyright 2004 by United Press International.
